Mission Statement
The mission of the BES School Counseling Program is to provide a comprehensive, developmental, and preventative program that supports the academic, personal/social, and career growth of all students. In collaboration with families, school staff, and community stakeholders, school counselors empower students to develop the skills and mindsets necessary to succeed academically, build healthy relationships, and make meaningful contributions to society.
Through a proactive, sequential, and data-informed counseling program, students receive support across all facets of their education to enhance competencies in the academic, personal/social, and career domains.
Hello! My name is Kyle Strittholt. This is my fourth year as the full-time counselor at Bright Elementary. I am overjoyed at the opportunity to serve our students and look forward to another incredible school year. Together, Mrs. Lobenstein and I will make every effort to ensure that your child receives as much support as possible.
If you have any further questions regarding the school counseling program, please feel free to contact me directly.
kmstrittholt@sunmandearborn.k12.in.us
(812) 637-4600 Ext. 14902
Hello! My name is Bonnie Lobenstein. This is my fifth year as a school counselor. I previously taught kindergarten at North Dearborn Elementary for 26 years. I am looking forward to another great year as a counselor between North Dearborn (Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday) and Bright Elementary (Monday and Thursday)!
Feel free to contact me anytime. My extension below will be directed to both schools.
blobenstein@sunmandearborn.k12.in.us
(812) 637-4600 Ext. 16001
Direct Services Offered
Students may experience challenges that affect their learning, behavior, or emotional well-being. While school counselors do not provide long-term therapy, they offer short-term, school-based support designed to help students be successful at school.
Classroom Lessons
School counselors provide lessons in the classroom and schoolwide programs for all students. These lessons focus on skills such as emotional regulation, friendship skills, problem-solving, coping strategies, and responsible decision-making.
Small-Group Counseling
Small-group counseling provides students with the opportunity to learn and practice skills alongside peers who may be experiencing similar challenges. These groups support students in building positive relationships, improving social skills, managing emotions, and developing a sense of belonging.
Short-Term Individual Counseling
School counselors offer short-term individual counseling and crisis support for students experiencing concerns such as grief, stress, anxiety, or difficult life transitions. When ongoing or outside support is needed, counselors partner with families to connect students with appropriate community resources.
Indirect Services
Indirect services are ways school counselors support students by working with the adults in their lives. These services happen behind the scenes and help ensure students receive the support, accommodations, and resources they need to be successful at school.
Parent/Guardian Meetings and Presentations
School counselors meet with parents and guardians individually and provide informational presentations to support student growth and well-being.
Student Advocacy via:
School counselors advocate for students by participating in and supporting:
Public agency coordination
Section 504 planning
School behavior and student support teams
Collaboration with teachers and staff to address student needs
School counselors work closely with teachers and school staff to identify student needs, problem-solve concerns, and develop strategies that support student success in the classroom and school environment.
Facilitation of Referrals
When students need support beyond what can be provided at school, counselors assist families with referrals to appropriate school-based or community resources.
Parent Consultation and Resource Connection
School counselors consult with parents and guardians to help address individual student needs and connect families with available supports and services.